Discover how London’s housing has evolved throughout the decades with our interactive tool

London has grown exponentially as it’s evolved into the megacity we know today. The 32 boroughs that make up this thriving metropolis are unique in their own right and from a historical perspective, each one has a notable and unique story. From the luxurious pre-1900 houses and garden squares in Knightsbridge, to the housing expansion and regeneration around Canary Wharf in recent years, London’s homes are as diverse as its inhabitants.

With this in mind, Knight Frank is pleased to launch a new, interactive report aimed at sharing unique insight into the Capital’s housing history for both residents and visitors alike. Our interactive tool uses housing data from the past 120 years, to visualise 14 unique stories connected to some of the Capital’s most notable areas. These boroughs showcase the dramatic changes in that area, while also highlighting their significance to the overall landscape of London’s housing.

To begin, click on an area or select a borough from the drop-down list.

Understand and compare complex data with our helpful infographics and read the full narrative to learn all about each London borough.

"Islington’s housing development accelerated dramatically from the 1850’s."

Pre-1900

A popular excursion destination for Londoners during the 17th century, Islington’s early beginnings were founded on entertaining the capitals wealthy.

By 1716, there were 56 ale houses on Islington’s arterial road - Upper Street, also offering pleasure and tea gardens. By the early 19th century music halls, theatres and bookshops were established around Islington Green.

Islington’s housing development accelerated dramatically from the 1850’s. Population growth, in tandem with the introduction of London’s nascent transport network, intensified the need for urban planning.

The demographics of the borough shifted with the advent of rail, as labourers were moved in and around Islington to build depots and goods yards to accommodate the area’s growing infrastructure.

Extensive bombing during World War II caused substantial damage to Islington's housing stock and vacant land regeneration focussed on the building of social housing to accommodate the displaced, reaching a peak in 1970’s.

1980’s and beyond

From the 1980’s, the handsome Victorian family homes and Georgian terraces were rediscovered by professionals, creative types, celebrities and politicians. Many of these town houses continue to be redeveloped as part of Islington’s on-going renaissance.

In most recent years Islington has attracted buyers from central London postcodes as the area has undergone significant re-invention with now excellent local shops, boutiques, coffee shops and restaurants.

21st Century property development

A vast number of Islington’s period Victorian and Georgian buildings fall in conservation areas or are listed and can therefore not be altered, helping to maintain the area’s character. New luxury development Islington Square, off vibrant Upper Street, will offer penthouses and warehouse style apartments, developed from existing Georgian buildings.

"The demographics of the borough shifted with the advent of rail, as labourers were moved in and around Islington to build depots and goods yards to accommodate the area’s growing infrastructure."

If you would like to find out more about the historic buildings of iconic Islington contact our Islington agents.